1. WHO Africa

News Releases

Protecting at-risk populations from mpox in the Democratic Republic of the Congo

The Democratic Republic of the Congo is the hardest hit country in the African region by mpox outbreak, accounting for about 80% of laboratory-confirmed cases and deaths reported across the continent this year. While mpox is primarily transmitted through close physical contact, it can affect anyone. Vulnerable populations are at a heightened risk of infection and severe illness.
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Enhanced control measures helping to control mpox outbreak in Africa

More than 13 000 laboratory-confirmed mpox cases have been reported in the African region since the start of 2024, as of 17 November. Three countries – Burundi, the Democratic Republic of Congo and Uganda - account for approximately 97% of all reported cases so far this year. From reinforcing outbreak control measures including health worker training, to the delivery of medical supplies and equipment, and to the development of vaccine deployment plans, World Health Organization (WHO) is providing critical technical and financial support to countries to effectively respond to and end the mpox outbreaks in the region.
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WHO, Africa CDC support 17 countries to develop mpox vaccination plans

Brazzaville – World Health Organization (WHO) and Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) experts gathered in Brazzaville this week with country representatives and partners to provide guidance for the development of targeted mpox vaccine preparedness and deployment plans to ensure that available doses are used efficiently.

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Botswana sets sights on enhanced health outcomes with the development of new immuniz...

In a bold step toward strengthening public health, Botswana has developed its National Immunization Strategy (NIS) for 2025–2030. Spearheaded by the Ministry of Health's Child Health Division Expanded Program on Immunization (EPI) Unit, with critical support from the World Health Organization (WHO), UNICEF and key stakeholders. The strategy aims to ensure robust protection against vaccine-preventable diseases (VPDs) throughout the life course in alignment with regional and global immunization priorities, such as the Immunization Agenda 2030.

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